The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is actively developing Part 108, a regulatory framework aimed at standardizing Beyond Visual Line of Sight (BVLOS) operations for unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). This initiative is expected to significantly impact the drone industry by enabling more complex and expansive operations without the need for individual waivers.

Current Status

As of January 2025, the FAA has yet to finalize Part 108 regulations. The delay has prompted industry stakeholders and lawmakers to urge the FAA to expedite the rulemaking process, emphasizing the importance of BVLOS capabilities for the growth and integration of drone operations across the globe.

Proposed Framework

During the FAA’s Drone and Advanced Air Mobility Symposium in 2024, insights into the proposed Part 108 framework were shared. The FAA is considering two primary pathways for BVLOS approvals:

• Operational Permits: A streamlined approach intended for operations with lower aircraft weights, quantities, and operational scope.
• Operational Certificates: Designed for more extensive operations, such as large-scale drone delivery services.

These pathways aim to create a flexible and scalable approval process, ensuring both small-scale and large-scale operations can benefit from the new regulatory framework. While the final details of Part 108 are still pending, it is expected to introduce a standardized framework for BVLOS operations, enabling more complex and expansive drone missions.

Implications for Drone Operators

The anticipated implementation of Part 108 is set to revolutionize the drone industry by delivering several key benefits:

• Reduce Reliance on Waivers: Establishing a standardized framework will eliminate the need for case-by-case approvals, streamlining operations for operators.
• Enhance Operational Capabilities: Clear guidelines will enable operators to conduct more complex missions over greater distances, opening new opportunities for commercial applications.
• Foster Technological Advancements: Regulatory clarity will encourage investment in BVLOS technologies, driving innovation and progress across the industry.

As these changes unfold, DARTdrones is uniquely positioned to support operators through this transition. With industry-leading training and preparation courses, DARTdrones can help ensure pilots are equipped to meet the new regulatory requirements and take full advantage of the expanded operational capabilities enabled by Part 108.

Conclusion

While the finalization of Part 108 is still pending, the FAA’s ongoing efforts and interim approvals indicate a commitment to integrating BVLOS operations safely. DARTdrones remains dedicated to staying informed about regulatory developments to help drone operators prepare for this pivotal shift. With Part 108 on the horizon, DARTdrones aims to propel the drone industry into a new era of innovation and growth, ensuring operators are ready to seize the opportunities this transformative regulation will bring.

The post The Future of Drone Operations: What Part 108 Means for BVLOS and the Industry appeared first on DARTdrones.

What does LAANC stand for?

LAANC : Low Altitude Authorization and Notification Capability

What is LAANC?

LAANC is a collaboration between the FAA and the drone industry. LAANC allows UAS pilots to fly in controlled airspace with real-time authorization when they are flying below approved altitudes of up to 400 ft. above the ground. Depending on the software application used to obtain a LAANC authorization, LAANC also provides drone pilots with the ability to view live air traffic information and receive notifications when a manned aircraft is approaching their flight area.

Do you have to be a Part 107 drone pilot to use LAANC?

Planning on flying in controlled airspace? Now, both Part 107 and recreational pilots are required to submit an airspace authorization request. Read more about LAANC for recreational use airspace authorization, here.

What software providers offer LAANC?

Below is a list of companies that have completed the technical steps required and entered into an agreement with the FAA to provide LAANC services:

• AirMap
• Airspacelink
• Airbus
• Aloft
• Avision
• Skyward
• UASidekick
• Wing

How to use LAANC to fly near airports

While the specific steps will vary depending on the LAANC provider you select and the software interface they provide, the general steps for obtaining a LAANC authorization include:

1. Identify the flight area on a digital map and within a specific “grid” as shown on the FAA’s UAS Facility Map overlay.
2. Provide required information such as date and duration of the flight, planned maximum flight altitude (must be below the maximum “grid” area altitude shown), expected or known visibility at the time of take-off, sUAS pilot contact info, sUAS model, speed of the drone, and weight of the drone.
3. Answer a series of questions to confirm that the flight is being conducted by the holder of an FAA Remote Pilot Certificate, the drone will remain within visual line of sight of the operator, the aircraft is equipped with anti-collision lighting visible for at least 3 statute miles (civil twilight flights only), you have completed a preflight airworthiness check, and the sUAS is appropriately registered with the FAA.
4. Review the information for accuracy prior to submission
5. Submit your request
6. Receive a text message with your LAANC authorization confirmation and information.
7. Go Fly!

The post The LAANC System: How to Fly Your Drone Near Airports appeared first on DARTdrones.

The FAA (and TSA) are Your Friends

Living in the TSA-controlled airspace surrounding Washington D.C.’s Regan National Airport (DCA), many of my commercial drone jobs depend on approval from the FAA and often the TSA as well. Rather than fearing the humans who work at these agencies, I’ve learned to appreciate and even seek their help. The TSA and FAA humans are there to increase the safety in the National Airspace (NAS), an important goal for me whether I’m flying a “real” plane or a drone.

Yes, they are law enforcement. And yes, you can get in trouble if you break their rules. However, the vast majority of the time, the analysts and controllers I encounter are clearly there to help you stay out of trouble and fly safely and legally.

Details are Critical

When I’m flying drones, there are many aspects that, with practice, have become second nature. But don’t let the easier, more routine aspects of drone flight camouflage the level of detail that you must ALWAYS be your focus when you’re about to launch your drone. The list of details would use up all 10 of my lessons learned, so I’ll mention just a few areas where it can be too easy to ignore the details:

1. Always keep in mind the product that you and your client are trying to create. What’s the story that you are trying to tell with your stills or video?
2. Wind: How much wind and gusts can your drone handle before you lose control or burn through your batteries too quickly?
3. Temperature: At what point is it too cold or too warm to fly? Your batteries care about the temperature, but so does your airframe.

Know Photography

From doing ground photography and videography, I learned years ago about shutter speeds, F-stops, ISOs, and Exposure Values (EV). What I quickly appreciated as a drone pilot is how critical that knowledge is. The vast majority of commercial drone work benefits from the pilot’s understanding of how to take the most advantage of the camera payload attached to a drone. (Exceptions might be missions such as crop-dusting and package delivering.) Learn as much as you can about all aspects of your flying camera. “Auto” settings for your camera are generally not your friends! If you’re looking to learn more about aerial photography, DARTdrones offers an online aerial photography course. You can check that out here.

Clear Weather is Not Always Clearly Better

A drone flight’s dependence on weather is obvious. What surprised me was that 100% sunny (“clear”) skies are not always ideal. Mapping missions often benefit from diffused light (e.g., cloudy, but not too much). On the other hand, while photo and video shoots often benefit from more sun than mapping missions, shots taken in the sun’s direction are better with less than full sun. In that case, a significant cloud cover can make (or break) a shot.

Training Makes All the Difference

Just when you think you know it all, it’s time to go back to class. Because even if you do know it all, I find just listening to other instructors causes me to rethink what I’m doing and consider other ways to accomplish my missions. Check out www.dartdrones.com for an array of continuing education courses for you and your drone.

Passion Compensates for Heat, Cold, Bugs….

Unless you’re flying in San Diego or Bermuda, you probably have had the pleasures of flying in really cold and hot weather. Chilling breezes. Blazing sun. Biting bugs. They’re all part of the experience. I’m not a big fan of cold, heat, or bugs, but what has surprised me is that if you have a real passion for flying and creating great results, the heat is cooler, the cold is a little less biting, and the bugs are…ok, the bugs are still biting. For me, the passion for what I’m doing more than compensates for the less-than-ideal environments. (Wish it could make the sunburn a little less, um, burning!)

Marketing is Important

Like with most starting entrepreneurs, plan on spending about half your time doing your work and the other half will be spent marketing your work. Embrace the need for marketing and share your passion for what you’re doing with your potential clients.

The Ultimate Guide to Flying Drones Commercially

Learn how to pass your FAA part 107 exam and the best opportunities to make money with a drone.

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Clients are Always Right…After You Train Them

In your drone business, clients need to be right all the time. Sometimes they start out that way, but more often you’ll gently nudge them in the “right” direction. You know what’s legal and what works. You know what it takes to meet their expectations. Be confident enough to say “I can’t (or won’t) do that because….” Ultimately, they can always be right…because you trained them.

And don’t be afraid to walk away from a mission if you can’t or shouldn’t complete. Your confidence will be respected by your client. (You’re more likely to keep your license!)

Bystanders are Always Right…Always

Sadly, there’s a lot of public disinformation about drones. There is a fear that if a drone flies anywhere close to me, it must be spying on me or it must be about to drop out of the sky and it can only land on me.

I learned that bystanders with concerns need to be treated with respect and their concerns need to become your concerns. Even if it means rescheduling a job, sometimes it’s easier to walk away from the bystander, even if their complaint has no basis in fact. If you can educate the bystander or, even better, bring the bystander into the mission by showing your results, you can gain a fan rather than an antagonist.

Don’t “Race (Your Pay) to the Bottom”

In the beginning of your drone work, you’ll want to take any and every job you can. You might even consider doing someone’s work for free (or pay them?) just to get the experience. This may be a great way (and sometimes the only way) to get experience, but keep in mind that if all professional drone pilots race to bid pricing as low as clients would like, you could find yourself very busy NOT making a living. Be sure you know your worth and sell your value, not your price. And be ready to walk away if the client doesn’t value your time. The next one will.

Wrap Up:

The problem with a list of “10 things learned” is that it suggests there’s a finite list. You’re never done learning! Ever!

So what do you think? Do you have other important lessons you’ve learned as a commercial drone pilot? Please share your thoughts.

About the Author

Danny Burk flew radio-controlled model airplanes and graduated to “real” planes, earning his commercial/instrument pilot’s license in 1991. An avid sailor, Danny has always been fascinated with the weather and winds. Inspired by his passion for all aspects of aviation, Danny founded FnGravity LLC in 2018. FnGravity provides commercial drone services such as mapping, photography, videography, and inspections. FnGravity also specializes in creating drone footage that can be used to tell its clients’ stories. FnGravity is within the TSA-controlled airspace around Reagan National Airport (DCA) and surrounded by high priority military airspaces. This has created lots of opportunities to apply for approval to fly within much of the controlled airspace and for obtaining authorizations to fly even in “0′ airspace” near airports.In addition, Danny is experienced in creating photos for 3D models of numerous unusual structures such as 800′ power plant chimneys, cooling towers, and a soccer stadium. Danny’s past lives have included lawyering, mediating, and starting a computer consulting firm that was ultimately sold to an aerospace firm. Danny has always found opportunities to teach other professionals in his field as well as folks unfamiliar with his field. He loves passing on knowledge along with his passion for flying.

The post Ten Lessons Learned From A Commercial Pilot appeared first on DARTdrones.

What do you give to the man who has everything? On the other hand, what do you give to the guy who never does anything for himself because he’s always putting others first? It’s a tough question, but maybe not as difficult as you think. Coupon books full of “good-for-ones” go a long way, but consider kicking it up a notch this year, think about giving the gift of a training course to learn how to fly a drones.

The Best Father’s Day Gifts Make Dreams Come True

Does the man in your life secretly wish he had become a fighter pilot? Does he long for the day when he can make his dreams come true by piloting a really cool plane? Does he need a change of pace from his regular monotony at work, or does he feel stuck in a rut after a pandemic year? Is he a techie? Does he like to spend time outside? Is he into photography or videography?

Even without an innate desire to pilot a plane or ability to deal with tech, a guy can really expand his horizons and get out of his daily grind with a fun day training to fly a drone through a drone training academy.

The Best Father’s Day Gifts are Unforgettable

For Father’s Day, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity awaits for your loved one to learn to fly a drone and become an actual drone pilot! Not only will he gain the experience and learn something new, but he gets to train with actual professional pilots! He can be trained successfully and fully at a drone training school. DARTdrones offers a variety of courses, but you can start your loved one off with the basics.

Even better, you could join him and train to be a drone pilot as well! You’d have something to bond over and share together. You’d both have experiences you could share with family and friends as you tell them how much fun it was to learn how to pilot a drone together. When you learn something new, you gain knowledge that lasts for years. When you learn it while spending time together, you create memories that last a lifetime.

Time together in a drone basic flight training course at a drone training school like DARTdrones would make your Father’s Day gift to your loved one unforgettable. Part of the benefits of the DARTdrones basic flight training course are:

• Drone training instructors are actual pilots of manned aircraft
• You don’t have to own your own drone to participate
• In-person courses are offered in 28 states
• It’s great for aviation buffs

Sign up for a drone training course with your dad, husband, or loved one and share the unique gift of time together having fun doing something new that you can bond together over and create memories.

The Best Father’s Day Gifts are Convenient

DARTdrones offers in-person drone training classes across the nation as well as live, virtual courses for those who are unable to travel. Virtual classes are limited in size to create an organic experience, and the professional instructors are still directly part of the training.

Don’t forget DARTdrones offers a wide variety of other courses that may be most interesting to your loved one. For example, check out the drones for beginners course that lets people learn at their own pace over a period of 6 months from the comfort of their home.

The Best Father’s Day Gifts Build on Something That’s Already Great

Set your loved one up for a basic flight training course, a drones for beginners course, or a virtual basic flight training course. If he likes it, he can even go on to train for and certify as a drone pilot with the Part 107 Airman Knowledge Exam. DARTdrones makes it easy to continue to build on the knowledge gained in one course to rise to the next level of achievement desired in more advanced courses and certifications.

Your loved one is already great and learning all about drones is great. Give your loved one experience with the drones in a drone training course, and voila! Your loved one becomes even greater!

The Best Father’s Day Gifts are Unique

Some dads want some adventure, and some like going on a hike.

Some dads like a new hoodie, and some dads want a new bike.

Instead of new razor or socks, and instead of some pants or a phone

Consider giving your time, and train to fly a drone.

While the limerick is something light, the gift of time is not. Remember that sharing yourself is best, because that’s all your loved ones really ever want is to spend time with you. Let them train on their own or with you, but either way, you’re giving them a gift of memories for a lifetime. Give the best Father’s Day gifts this year by taking a quick trip to the drone school DARTdrones.com to sign your loved one up and even yourself up for some top notch instruction and fun training on how to fly a drone.

About the Author

Sarah Cavalcanti joined DARTdrones in 2021 after relocating to Salt Lake City from her hometown of Atlanta, Georgia. As the Digital Marketing Associate, Sarah is a key member of the Marketing department and manages brand, social media efforts, and DARTdrones’ strategic marketing strategies. Sarah’s enthusiasm for the drone industry began via her education, receiving a Bachelor in Fine Arts with a concentration in photography as well as a personal love of videography.

DARTdrones is the nation’s leader in drone training, program development and consultation, offering online and in-person courses in 40+ cities across the United States. DARTdrones takes pride in their comprehensive curriculum, developed by a former US Navy Helicopter pilot, as well as their 40+ flight instructors who are all manned and unmanned aircraft pilots. Visit us online at www.dartdrones.com, call 800-264-3907 or email the DARTdrones Team at info@dartdrones.com to learn more.

The post The Best Father’s Day Gifts for 2021 appeared first on DARTdrones.

Here’s our list of the top items the best drone training schools cover in their curricula.

1. Training to be your own drone professional

As with being an expert drone pilot, a good drone training program does not solely focus on teaching students how to fly. Even at the base level, drone pilots strike a balance between becoming skilled at flying drones and managing the complex operations (rules and regulations, crew and equipment management, weather assessment, just to name a few). Pilots also understand how these factors contribute to the larger picture of what they or their partners are trying to accomplish.

In that sense, they are not just drone pilots – they are professionals applying their unique expertise to carry out jobs more efficiently, safely, and effectively. Turning trainees into this type of professional drone pilot always leverages them best for the job ahead. Recreational users, too, need to have a well-rounded understanding of how some of those details work – so don’t think they only apply to the commercial pilots!

2. Training to the specific drone industry

Drones are valuable tools when they are implemented correctly for the applications that they fly in. That’s why there wouldn’t be much use in drone training schools without their courses taking on the industries and applications the pilot trainees want to pursue. Given how uniquely drones are utilized between each use-case, DARTdrones targets specific applications with separate courses, so that pilots can maximize their drone-piloting and data management experience. An example is DARTdrones’ Drone Mapping and Surveying course, which provides in-depth information on the drones, software, theory, and methodology, which are very unique to drone surveying from other applications. Such courses are valuable for both beginners and experienced pilots looking to enter new applications.

3. Credentials and standardization of training

The top-tier drone training academies get their pilots-in-training to the internationally recognized standard – the AUVSI Trusted Operator Program (TOP) – certifying their skill and knowledge of drone operations. Without this official endorsement, the gained expertise may not mean much to others familiar (and not familiar) with drone operations, and in turn could negatively impact the pilot’s future opportunities with drones.

This is why our team at DARTdrones offers our Wings Program, which introduces TOP concepts. DARTdrones also offers specific Top Level 1 & 2 certification courses once students are ready to move ahead with more advance curriculum. If you’re unsure, we have a handful of reasons and a lot of documentation showing the importance of getting your TOP certification. If you are interested in a more niche subset of drone piloting skills, not to worry either – DARTdrones’ programs are widely recognized by professionals across the drone industry, having trained over 14,000 pilots.

4. Teach the rules and regulations – always

Passing the Part 107 exam is the key that unlocks a career in drones. It allows students a critical understanding of airspace, LAANC, weather, and much more. The rules and regulations taught for 107, and the local and state rules that apply, must be practiced every day, and not just treated as information that helps a trainee pilot get certified. A well designed drone training curriculum accounts for the all of the relevant rules that impact a given operation and its application, stays up-to-date with the constantly changing regulations, and even delves into the seemingly mundane details that come in handy after getting certified.

5. Drone training for the real world

As stated earlier, experienced pilots strike the balance between piloting and knowing the operations. Unfortunately, we’ve seen other programs spend too much time in the classroom focusing on operations, and not enough in the field flying the drones themselves. The importance of in-field practice is the preparation for real-world scenarios, which there are many of when flying drones.

At DARTdrones, for example, even in our virtual courses we assign drone flights as homework, which gets our participants out in the field to practice a wide range actions: drone maneuvers, best flight procedures, automation and drone features, as well as practice missions for any given application. In our more advanced courses, flight evaluations are critical to the success of our trainees.

Additional to understanding real-world situations through flying, we include planning, scenarios and emergencies as features and full courses, so that class attendees have a well-rounded knowledge of drone ops before diving in to them and learning the hard way.

6. Training to the diverse market

Drone training schools must follow, and pave the way of, the trends that evolve with the technology. Even if a training school has not yet encountered a particular use-case yet, the best ones always are willing to see how drones can work for their students. At DARTdrones, we keep our curricula flexible by offering custom solutions and spearheading all of the leading applications for commercial and recreational drones. Our instructor cadre offers a diverse skillset that should always bring a holistic solution to our students, whatever their motivations are.

Drone training programs hold a big responsibility in making drones accessible for new users. But when they teach the right material, they are injecting more expert pilots into the drone industry, and thus creating more opportunity for them and others. At DARTdrones we aim to teach the best drone training material to create the most opportunities for our customers and the industry they’re entering.

About the Author

Jerry has his own video production company and has been in the business for more than 20 years. When he’s not shooting videos or flying sUAS, he flies as a contract pilot for different clients in Central Texas. He has 3,000 hours of flight time and has been a flight instructor, full-time corporate pilot, and an airline pilot. He has been married for 16 years and has three daughters.

DARTdrones is the nation’s leader in drone training, program development and consultation, offering online and in-person courses in 40+ cities across the United States. DARTdrones takes pride in their comprehensive curriculum, developed by a former US Navy Helicopter pilot, as well as their 40+ flight instructors who are all manned and unmanned aircraft pilots. Visit us online at www.dartdrones.com, call 800-264-3907 or email the DARTdrones Team at info@dartdrones.com to learn more.

The post What Do the Best Drone Training Schools Teach? appeared first on DARTdrones.

By: Abby Speicher Carroll, CEO of DARTdrones

Over the last few years, there has been explosive growth and development in the drone industry, made possible by the rapid development of new technology. However, this explosive growth has also created uncertainty for many organizations that want to incorporate drones into their operations. From 2015 – 2018, the trend was to take a cautious approach to rolling out drone programs. Organizations implemented small “trial” teams of pilots with as little up front investment into equipment as possible.

As we transition to 2020, we at DARTdrones are seeing a significant shift in the approach organizations are taking to implementation of new drone programs. Many are realizing that building out their drone programs more completely at the beginning actually saves time and money in the long run. They are spending more time on planning, focusing on identifying high quality drone pilots, and committing to larger, more structured programs up front. Below are the five major shifts that we have seen in the implementation of organizational drone programs in 2019.

1. Increased Upfront Planning

A majority of the drone training or program roll-out issues we see are related to a lack of comprehensive planning prior to making commitments. Let’s face it, it can be confusing trying to figure out how the software, hardware, regulations, training, and procedures all come together to create a new drone program. We’ve seen far too many organizations commit to equipment prior to fully understanding their goals and use cases. Later, they find out the equipment they purchased isn’t ideal for their intended use case. Or that the use case they were most excited about actually only touches the surface on how an sUAS can help their business. Our team has definitely seen a shift in the conversation around upfront planning, and it is starting to pay off for new sUAS programs.

2. Larger Pilot Teams

In past years, in seemed the trend among companies was to start their drone programs small with an initial test group, then plan to slowly scale their program later. As we roll into 2020, we are seeing far more programs commit to larger pilot teams upfront. We actually give the increased emphasis on the planning stage a lot of credit for this change. Managers are far more confident that they are on the right path and thus more excited to stand up the program quickly.

3. Focus on Vetting New Pilots

In 2017 and 2018, we saw quite a few drone programs require that current employees, many with no interest in drones, become drone pilots. As we look back, organizations are seeing that as many as 2/3rds of those employees drop out of the program either for lack of interest or anxiety over flying a drone. Now, many companies are taking a more measured approach to vetting their potential drone pilots, thereby ensuring they have a long-term interest and invested in the success of the program. This more thoughtful pilot selection process prior to training is leading to more dedicated and professional pilots. Ultimately, this makes drone programs more stable and successful in the long run.

4. Commitment to Flight Assessments

In the past, many organizations either decided to “pass” on required flight assessments of their new drone teams or took on the huge challenge of trying to design their own flight assessment program. The consensus is in; flight assessments are essential. Fortunately, the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International, in conjunction with over 200 industry representatives, has created an industry certification program called the Trusted Operator Program (TOP). This program, which consists of a three tier certification system, provides organizations with a highly effective way to vet and certify both internal and contract drone pilots. To be certified as a TOP Level 2 Remote Pilot, an sUAS pilot is required to pass an intensive, in-person flight assessment. Many organizations are finding passing this assessment to be an important requirement for their pilots as they build their drone programs.

5. Excitement for Pilot Management Programs

Managers are also realizing the importance of tracking and managing their pilot teams to ensure accurate pre-flight planning, compliance with FAA regulations, and continuing education. Innovative software options, like Kittyhawk, are being implemented by drone program managers at small, medium, and large companies. We at DARTdrones have also jumped into this space with our new training management software, the PilotHub. These software programs both help organizations keep their programs running smoothly and provide the ability to scale up seamlessly.

Takeaways

Though in the past most companies started out tentatively, it now appears that many are investing more upfront to create a comprehensive plan for their drone programs. Upfront planning, the creation of standard operating procedures, hiring more initial pilots, tracking pilot success, and working with a professional training organization can help make organizational drone programs far more successful.

About the Author

Abby Speicher Carroll is the CEO and Founder of DARTdrones, a drone training and consulting company with a presence in over 30 cities nationwide. DARTdrones has trained thousands of new drone pilots, including those from major broadcast networks, government agencies, and Fortune 500 companies. Most recently, Abby successfully pitched DARTdrones on ABC’s Shark Tank. Abby founded DARTdrones while earning her MBA at Babson College. She was awarded first place in Babson’s annual B.E.T.A. Business Plan Competition, first place at the TecBridge Business Plan Competition, and the Class of 2015’s Entrepreneurship Award. In 2019, Abby was also awarded Forbes 30 under 30.

The post Five Changing Trends to How Organizations Approach Drone Program Implementation appeared first on DARTdrones.

Why should you get TOP certified? It’s important to aim high. Specialized training promotes effective critical thinking and sound habit formation. The ongoing success of commercial manned aviation in the U.S. demonstrates how advanced training helps to ensure high levels of safety and performance. The unmanned aerial community is ripe for both the consolidation and promotion of similar industry vetted training and standards. Quality and integrity speak volumes.

I recently spent a weekend just outside Chicago with a class of TOP Level 2 certification candidates led by a seasoned professional instructor from DARTdrones. Chicago was home before relocating to the Pacific Northwest, and the course was located in the controlled airspace (which everyone had clearance to operate in) where I achieved my private pilot’s license some years back. Never one to just stumble through an endeavor without a clear vision of what it takes to gain mastery, TOP Levels 1 & 2 serve my aspirations in the drone industry well.

To me, the Trusted Operator Program means safety, reliability, quality assurance, and differentiation above the mean. The future of the industry, and my goal, is intelligent, enterprise-scale UAS operations that make aerial platforms readily available to gather and deliver needed information. A professionally-sponsored program like TOP is fundamental to success at that scale; for sustained commercial acceptance as well as legitimacy on a broad societal level. Add to that, the weekend class was downright fun, informative and rewarding. Thanks Colin!

AUVSI’s TOP certification promotes situational awareness, risk-based decision making and comprehensive resource management within the drone community. We all benefit from reinforcing this framework. Clients, bystanders and even potential constituents have noted the professionalism of my enhanced site safety measures, comprehensive pre-flight prep and checklist operating procedures. I’m taken seriously because I take what I do seriously. We all know the true story, so let’s do our part to promote the care and responsibility we deliver. TOP advances our success.

Dave McCabe
BEAV-AIR UAS LLC
503.475.3309
dave.beavair@gmail.com

About Dave McCabe

Following many years as an executive managing high dollar commercial real estate investments and healthcare delivery operations, Dave has settled onto a promising new horizon in drone imaging services. A licensed private airplane and commercial remote sUAS pilot based in Portland, Oregon, he’s demonstrating an aviator’s relentless spirit and buckled-up passion for the open skies through his new business, Beav-Air UAS LLC, to make the motto “Information Elevated” a reality for his growing list of clients. Foremost, Dave enjoys the fast-paced intellectual challenge working and collaborating with so many really motivated, forward-looking minds on the unmanned aerial imaging scene. Doing so outdoors in the incredibly beautiful Pacific Northwest is simply a rewarding bonus that keeps him smiling.

The post DARTdrones Student Review: AUVSI Trusted Operator Program™ Level 1 and 2 Certified Remote Pilot appeared first on DARTdrones.

AUVSI Trusted Operator Program (TOP)

As a TOP Level 3 Training Provider and early-adopter partner in this program, we at DARTdrones have been involved in many important conversations with our clients about how the TOP program might benefit their organization. From these conversations, we have identified six reasons why many enterprise drone program managers are buying into TOP.

1. It’s a Differentiator

With thousands of Certified Part 107 Remote Pilots across the country, many of whom claim to be experts in everything unmanned, it can be very difficult to identify the truly qualified and experienced pilots. A number of our clients utilize contract pilots, yet the managers who hire them are unsure how to accurately vet their qualifications for a job. With a program like TOP, enterprise drone managers can quickly and effectively cut through the sea of Part 107 pilots to identify the best of the best.

2. Provides a True Industry Standard

The Trusted Operator Program is not just one organization, one “industry expert”, or one company claiming to have created the Industry Standard. The extensive TOP development process brought together over 200 industry leaders to create the consensus standards found in the TOP Protocol Certification Manual (PCM). Although many of these organizations and individuals had different approaches and goals, they came together to develop a true industry standard.

All TOP certified organizations go through a rigorous assessment of their internal sUAS programs conducted by a certification body. As a certified TOP Level 3 Training Provider, DARTdrones was evaluated on over 160 requirements within the following categories:

• Management Systems
• Operational Procedures
• Training Program
• Maintenance and Inspection
• Safety Management System

This third-party vetting, and the level of detail it encompasses, ensures that all TOP certified organizations are truly operating at the highest level of safety and compliance.
 

3. Fills in the “Missing Pieces” of Part 107

At conferences, industry events, and in numerous articles, the “missing pieces” of Part 107 are often mentioned as an ongoing issue. So, what exactly are these “missing pieces”? The industry leaders who put together the TOP program spent months working together to answer that question. The Remote Pilot Exam does test some important aviation topics, but most certified drone pilots would agree that many of the practical aspects of flying a drone are overlooked.

In TOP Level 1 training, remote pilots are trained and quizzed on their understanding of these missing pieces. Every TOP Training Provider takes a slightly different approach to covering this content. At DARTdrones, we cover this information in a series of 14 online scenario-based micro courses which we collectively call the Real World Flight Planning and Execution Program. This course covers the practical real world understanding and application of:

• Airspace
• Weather Assessment
• Site Assessment
• Risk Assessment and Management
• Equipment Care and Maintenance
• Battery Care and Safety
• Utilizing Checklists
• Emergency Procedures Response
• Overcoming Disorientation
• Aviation Communications
• Visual Observer and Crew Best Practices
• Operational Safety
• Flight Principles and Performance
• Air Law

4. Provides a Vetted Flight Assessment

Many enterprise drone programs already have an internal training program for their pilots. Clients continually ask if we can help them build a flight assessment to finalize this training. With TOP Level 2 and 3, a very clear flight assessment has already been created that ensures TOP certified drone pilots are safe, competent operators.

During the TOP Practical Flight Assessment process, pilots are first evaluated in a question-answer session on their knowledge of regulations, environmental elements, navigation elements, emergency response, and human factor elements. Remote pilots must then demonstrate to the assessor their ability to safely and effectively execute pre-flight planning, systems checks, a safety briefing, normal flight procedures, manual flight maneuvers, abnormal and emergency procedures, crew resource management, and operational compliance.

The result is a comprehensive assessment of a remote pilot’s practical flight skill and operational practices

5. Functional Area Breakout

During the development of TOP, many people asked how this program could be relevant to sUAS missions across so many different industries. This concern was addressed with the inclusion of Functional Areas. Experts in each area were highly involved in the development of the protocol standards for their respective vertical. Not only has this approach allowed for true experts in each functional area to identify their specific needs, it has also brought some interesting industry specific organizations into the TOP development team.

Currently TOP Level 3 breaks out the following functional areas:

• Agriculture
• Environmental Services
• Infrastructure and Utility Inspections
• Petroleum, Oil and Gas Inspections
• Public Safety Operations
• Training Providers

Additional functional areas will be added to the above list as the TOP program and drone industry as a whole continues to mature.
 

6. Improves Internal Pilot Team Buy In

Many enterprise drone programs are selecting drone pilots from within their current employee base. However, processing these individuals through the required training and certification can at times drag on due to the fact it this is typically a collateral duty for these employees. In some organizations, TOP certification is being used as an incentive to motivate internal drone pilots to prioritize their drone responsibilities.

There are some very interesting conversations taking place behind the scenes regarding TOP program implementation within some of the nation’s largest drone programs. It’s going to take some time, but TOP is well positioned to be adopted as the industry standard.

About DARTdrones and the Trusted Operator Program

As an early adopter of AUVSI’s Trusted Operator Program, DARTdrones offers comprehensive, online and in-person curriculum for TOP Level 1 and TOP Level 2 Remote Pilot Certification training.
 
TOP Level 1

Becoming a Level 1 TOP Operator requires all drone pilots to complete the following:

• 14 Online Micro Courses
• Proof of Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate

Upon completing the above requirements, the newly designated TOP Operator will receive the following:

• A digital copy of the TOP Protocol Certification Manual
• AUVSI TOP Level 1 Certificate
• AUVSI TOP Level 1 Pin
• Listed on TOP Operator Directory as TOP Level 1 Pilot

 
TOP Level 2

To become certified as a Level 2 TOP Operator, all drone pilots must complete the following:

• TOP Level 1 Certification
• 1 Day In-Person Instructor Led Training
• Hands-on Flight Evaluation with DARTdrones Instructor

Upon completing the above requirements, the newly designated TOP Operator will receive the following:

• AUVSI TOP Level 2 Certificate
• AUVSI TOP Level 2 Pin
• Listed on TOP Operator Directory as Level 2 Pilot

 
DARTdrones is the nation’s leader in drone training, program development and consultation, offering online and in-person courses in 40+ cities across the United States. DARTdrones takes pride in their comprehensive curriculum, developed by a former US Navy Helicopter pilot, as well as their 40+ flight instructors who are all manned and unmanned aircraft pilots. Call 800-264-3907 or email the DARTdrones Team at info@dartdrones.com to learn more.

The post 6 Reasons Enterprise Drone Programs are Buying into the AUVSI Trusted Operator Program™ (TOP) appeared first on DARTdrones.

Christina Martinez, CFII, Commercial Pilot and DARTdrones Flight Instructor, spoke with us about her experience flying drones for the Super Bowl LII in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

Christina’s Experience Flying Drones for The Super Bowl LII

How did you get involved in flying drones for the Super Bowl?

We have always worked hard to network with our local pilot community as well as larger organizations.  Doing so has enabled us to keep up with technology and application innovations and support requests for drone services that require more pilots than our company can staff.  One of the requests we fulfilled for the super bowl was for media operations – this particular opportunity we responded to a request on a nation-wide Facebook page. When operating in locations unfamiliar, it’s often advantageous to work with local pilots who have first hand knowledge of state and local regulations, operating conditions, and know the in’s and out’s of getting around.  

Can you describe the live streaming you did?

Our mission was to stream events from drone and ground teams throughout the Minneapolis and St. Paul areas.  The events included things like pick-up ice hockey games, horse drawn carriages, sights around the Cities, and parties that the agency wanted streamed.  We used Osmos from our Inspire’s for the ground work. The drone teams were two person teams which included a pilot and VO (the VO was also a pilot in all cases).  Using the same equipment for both ground and flight teams enabled the technology and media crew to streamline operations.

We put the entire crew together in under a week and worked from two mission hubs – one for the tech team that was led by the agency and one for the drone and ground teams and their equipment.  Our project manager worked with the agency to create schedules for each of the teams that showed where each team had to be and what time they needed to be live so that at least one, sometimes two crews (for backup) would be available to livestream at any time.  It took an incredible amount of coordination, especially when considering travel time, weather, and flight restrictions.

When we put the teams together we hired pilots based on both their skills and their ability to quickly make safe, smart decisions – including calling fly/no-fly in high-pressure situations.  When a team was unable to fly, we filled some of those slots by taking the props off our drones and using them as a ground camera to film hockey games, bonfires and skiing events. We communicated via text and also an app so that when one crew landed for battery swaps or relocation, another would immediately take off.

How were you able to keep up with live streaming for 16 hours a day?

The live streaming was made difficult for a number of reasons.  For starters, operating in extreme temperatures (cold in this case) meant that our battery life was shorter, snow/visibility could ground a flight crew, and our personnel had to worry about frostbite!  Even someone holding an Osmo on the ground for 12 hours a day had difficulties in the cold weather! The next issue was keeping our batteries charged. The pilots had between 6 and 10 batteries each and would continuously charge from their cars when able on location.  The Osmo holders had it a little more difficult. They couldn’t carry charging packs, so they often ended up warming up and recharging batteries in tunnels (Minneapolis has above ground tunnels between buildings for the winters!), coffee shops, or anywhere they could find an outlet!  

We both live streamed and recorded video during the entire event.  Managing memory cards meant that every team carried multiple memory cards.  Every night after midnight each team loaded their data onto a hardrive that was then used for filler the following day.

Finally, one of our unforeseen issues was actually streaming video live.  We all quickly ran out of data on our cell phone plans and we had to start buying hot spots to stream the data.  Some locations we couldn’t get good enough cell service or internet due to the number of people in the area.

Was it difficult flying drones in Minnesota during the cold February temperatures?

We learned a LOT about flying in frigid temperatures!  Our No-Fly temperature was -6F and a few times we had to wait for it to warm up to -6 in the morning!  There are a few ways to manage the cold weather. The first is to dress your body for the weather. Multiple layers, long down jackets, insulated snow pants and boots.  Because you’re not physically moving very much, your feet and hands are the first thing that gets cold. Flip top mittens that have cut-off fingers are great – you can stuff a hand warmer in the mitten part and only expose the fingers needed for flight.  Flight mitts are also a great option, just make sure your joystick stays free and clear of any fabric!

We were required to use visual observers and only used VOs that could also fly as pilots.  That way we were able to hand the remote back and forth to take turns keeping our hands in our pockets with our hand warmers!

We know that our batteries, iPads and the plastic on the drones are susceptible to extreme temperatures. We strapped hot pads to our iPads, put hot pads in our remote mitts (a definite must to maintain dexterity while flying) and kept our drone and batteries in heated cases.  We would go through packs and packs of hot pads each day keeping our equipment as warm as possible!

Did you fly under Part 107?

We performed all our videography/live streaming under Part 107 and held local permits, and FAA airspace authorizations and night waivers.

Can you explain Crew Resource Management for this event?

It is incredibly important to have an Air Boss or project manager who understands the 107 requirements, local rules and regulations, local contacts (FAA, permitting authorities and emergency personnel), and is also incredibly organized.  One night my team was flying downtown as snow started to come in from the west. The team out west was watching the closest METAR in their area and as soon as it went below 3SM, they landed. We knew our team was next. The PM was able to coordinate with ground crews to get someone else live, and HQ filled in with previously recorded footage.  She had the west crew relocate to the North where the vis was above 3 miles while we filmed from the ground, and then had them pop back up. She had to know the city and where interesting events might be taking place, weather, 107 regulations, AND all the temporary restrictions that were in place during the event.

What types of drones did you fly for the Super Bowl LII?

We flew multiple drones based on the location, operation, and team experience.  We had a few Inspire 1s, P4Ps, and Mavics.

Were there any challenges or drawbacks while flying for the Super Bowl?

The biggest challenge was the weather.  Since we were able to work with a Minnesota based crew, we were all prepared with the appropriate gear.  We learned a lot about technology restraints, streaming live. Putting the entire operation together in a week meant that we didn’t have time to do all the planning we wanted.  Another challenge was working with the City of Minneapolis as they navigated the NFL and FAA rules and regulations. This was the first time the city created a permitting process for flying drones during large events.  As the industry grows and drones become the norm, the processes will become streamlined!

What were the main benefits drones brought to the Super Bowl?

Drones brought a unique view of the Super Bowl, especially one where the weather was so cold that people weren’t able to spend a lot of time outdoors.  We were able to showcase the “Bold North” as Minneapolis called it by filming ice houses on lakes south of the city, ice rinks, ice sculpture contests, cross country ski races and fat tire races through the woods.  

Do you think we will see drone pilot’s flying missions for the Super Bowl LIII?

There will definitely be drone pilots flying missions this year.  Drones are now expected in security, news coverage, and advertising.  Perhaps we’ll even see another drone light show in a future Super Bowl!  As technology matures and the professional pilot community grows, drones will continue to be an important part of our event experience.

The post Flying Drones for the Super Bowl: A Commercial Drone Pilot’s Experience Flying For Super Bowl LII appeared first on DARTdrones.

Excited to highlight our first drone pilot to complete the Trusted Operator Program Level 1 Certification, DARTdrones contacted Shane Teague to get his thoughts on this new achievement. From Hickory, North Carolina, Teague has a background in medical electronics and became hooked on drones shortly after building many of his own quadcopters around five years ago. This progressed into him starting his own drone business a year ago, encouraging Teague to pursue his TOP Level 1 Certification. Prior to accomplishing his TOP Level 1 Certification, Teague completed DARTdrones Aerial Mapping and Modeling course and found it to be a “great training”, making him eager to train with DARTdrones again.

“I think the Trusted Operator Program sets you apart from the crowd”

Like many other drone entrepreneurs, Teague was interested in AUVSI’s Trusted Operator Program from a business perspective. “I want to show professionalism and commitment to my job. Also, show my customers that they are not just hiring anyone that has a Part 107 License.” Using drones mainly for insurance and real estate photography, Teague hopes to show that unmanned pilots have the same professionalism and commitment as manned pilots.

To become a Level 1 TOP Operator, all drone pilots are required to complete DARTdrones 14 Online Micro Courses and provide proof of their Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificate. We asked Teague for his feedback on the courses and what his biggest takeaways were. “ I found the material presented to be great and in an easy to follow format. My biggest takeaway had to be safety.”

We congratulate Shane on this great accomplishment within the sUAS industry!

With any questions on the Trusted Operator Program, please contact the DARTdrones Team at 800-264-3907 or info@dartdrones.com.

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